Burning Man 2012

16092012

BOOM!

Just as I had started to wonder how they were going to set ablaze the intricate and large structure on which The Man was standing, a massive explosion rocked the playa. WHOAH! Okay, now how are they going to get those huge support beams to – BOOM! – four smaller, yet still huge explosions.

Oh, right. That way.

!!!!!! (Image from Reuters)

I’m sorry, Yair, but is that a fire-shooting octopus and a pirate ship in the desert behind you?

Burning Man this year was very different from in years past, even ignoring the glaring fact that Ayo wasn’t with me. I experienced the (much dustier) playa in a tent, rented a car and bicycle, and had to arrange flights to and accommodations in Reno. Ayo and I had been spoiled in 2010 and 2011 when our Burning Man prep consisted mostly of buying extra groceries.

But this year’s Burn was fantastic and further reinforced my desire to be back in 2013. And 2014. And probably beyond.

The art installations were incredible, the people were as fun and creative as always, and the music and spirit of Black Rock City kept a constant smile on my face. There is no place like this massive and crazy city in the middle of the desert. Six days is a perfect amount of time to spend with the crazies (and to be one) and memories of the event always put my mind on a very natural high for a long time.